Library Learning Patch-Inside Day

Last week our session was mainly inside, as we had only maintenance work to do outside. First we heard an interesting report one of the girls had prepared about lettuce. These children put a lot of effort into their assignments!

We read a book, Brother Eagle, Sister Sky. Then we played two games that reinforced how we are all connected with nature.

First we ate blueberries--also known as starberries. I read an article about how the Indians used blueberries for medicinal purposes, as well as a dye. They looked at the blossom end with a magnifying glass to better see the star shape. Then we passed out 12 blueberries to each child. I explained that twelve of these blueberries represented water in the ocean. They ate the 12, naming a sea animal or fish when eating each one. Fun! Then I explained that out of the remaining three, one represented mountains and one represented desert. Only one represented the land we live on and that sustains us. We then discussed how important it is to take care of this portion.

Yummy starberries!

We then played a game with string. I asked questions about nature and with each answer string was tied to the child's finger who answered. Before long the string was stretched in criss crosses to every child. Then we discussed what would happen when one piece was cut and how that affected everyone. I then cut several pieces to demonstrate this.

The web of life

Then it was off to check on the garden. The children we happy to see almost everything doing well. Next week we will harvest the radishes! Their sunflowers are doing well also. The only plants that didn't sprout were the beans and squash. We will replant squash next week. They pulled the few weeds that had sprouted.

Stay tuned for our first meal -- radishes!!